Posting on Substack. How personal is too personal?
Finding connection through storytelling
So … how personal is too personal here on Substack?
Substack is an interesting space. For many of us, it’s a platform for learning, expanding our knowledge, sharing insights, exploring ideas tied to our work and even networking. But here’s the ongoing question: how personal should we get?
There’s a certain magic in sharing more of ourselves—our quirks, stories, and experiences. I think it’s kinda cool to share our point of view about what we do professionally but also maybe about who we are as people. After all, isn’t that the point of social platforms? To connect in a meaningful way, beyond the surface level?
Why personal stories matter
When we open up, even just a little, it humanises us. Research by Brené Brown, who studies vulnerability and connection, highlights how sharing personal experiences fosters trust and relatability. A newsletter episode or a LinkedIn post that includes a slice of life—something unique to you—can resonate with others and make your message more memorable.
Personal stories also have the power to inspire.
Maybe you overcame a challenge or developed an unusual hobby. These details make you more approachable and relatable, especially in professional spaces where people are often hesitant to show their human side.
Little stories, big connections
I’ve been reflecting on the moments and quirks that make me, well, me. Sharing them has helped me connect with my audience on Substack and beyond. But perhaps it’s time to share a bit more—about the things I enjoy, the ways I spend my time when I’m not writing about “work,” and the little pieces of life that shape who I am.
Running has been a constant in my life since I was 15. What began as a way to spend time with my sister evolved into my escape and source of inspiration. It’s taught me discipline, resilience, and the joy of finding a rhythm.
I blogged about baking bread long before I had any interest in cooking (or writing). Looking back, it’s funny to think how a love for sourdough led me to discover a love for storytelling.
I’m a certified yoga teacher and have my own Instagram account dedicated to sharing my yoga journey. I even have a YouTube channel where I post short sequences and yoga flows.
Getting my driving licence at 31 felt monumental. For years, I thought I’d never drive, but that milestone was a reminder that it’s never too late to try something new. I got my license in Barcelona, Spain.
Living and working in 5+ countries opened my eyes to different cultures and perspectives. It also explains my never-ending itch to travel.
I’m also a certified barista. While I’m terrible at making latte art, I still deeply enjoy good coffee and tea. I’m always on the lookout for cafés that strike the perfect balance between interior design aesthetics, quality ingredients, and exceptional service.
And yes, I depend on a handful of apps to stay organised and inspired, from Google Maps for navigation & coffeeshop reviews to LingoDeer for studying Korean.
Sharing these snippets of my life is about creating a space for others to share, too.
Finding your balance
Of course, not everyone feels comfortable being personal online. The key is finding a balance that works for you. Ask yourself what stories align with your values and your audience’s interests. You don’t have to bare your soul—sometimes a light-hearted anecdote or a lesson learned is enough.
To explore this further, I’d recommend Brené Brown’s TED Talk The Power of Vulnerability or her book Daring Greatly. They’re great resources for understanding how sharing more of yourself can lead to deeper connections.
What about you?
So, how personal do you get on platforms like Substack or LinkedIn? Have you found value in sharing stories about your life, or do you prefer to keep it strictly professional?
I’d love to hear your thoughts, and if you’re feeling inspired, share one thing about yourself that others might not know yet :)